Freedom of expression is one of the foundations of a democratic and pluralistic society. Its corollary is access for everyone to accurate, reliable and timely information, a key precondition for informed public participation. The role of the media and journalists in seeking out, verifying and distributing information is crucial.

States have the responsibility to provide adequate safeguards, both through law and practice, for the effective enjoyment and protection of freedom of expression, including by creating an enabling environment for free and responsible media to flourish and play their essential role in democracy.

The Council of Europe is well placed to help prevent and address the threats to the exercise of the rights and freedoms guaranteed by Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights, both offline and in the online environment.

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Back Conference on the future of Bosnian public broadcaster

Conference on the future of Bosnian public broadcaster

The Council of Europe will co-organise the upcoming conference in the offices of national broadcaster of Bosnia and Herzegovina on 13th June. The conference will focus on the need of media law reform and securing adequate and sustainable funding in order to ensure the existence of Public Service Media in the country.

Growing political fragmentation in Bosnia and Herzegovina has worked against the existence of the Public Service Media in its current form and expected media law reforms were never implemented. National broadcaster BHRT has accumulated substantial debts over the years - erosion of the license fee, a weak fee collection system and payment arrears from regional broadcast partners have left BHRT at threat of imminent closure.

The conference is being jointly organized by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), The Radio and Television of Bosnia-Herzegovina (BHRT), the BH Journalists Association, the Council of Europe, the Office of the OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, the European Federation of Journalists and the South East Europe Media Organization. It provides an opportunity to bring together public authorities in Bosnia and Herzegovina along with representatives of the media, international organizations, civil society and other experts to discuss possible solutions and ensure proper implementation of the Council of Europe and European Union standards.

 

Strasbourg 7 June 2017
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In time of conflict



The right to freedom of expression and information constitutes one of the essential foundations of democratic society. In conflict situations and wars, the role of the media is critical in providing the public with accurate and timely information. Trustworthy news and images can contribute to the protection of civilians and conflict prevention, bring to the attention of the international community the horrors and reality of conflict and expose violations of human rights and international humanitarian law.

 Visit the "Freedom of expression in times of conflict" webpage

Journalists Matter Campaign

Journalists Matter, the Council of Europe Campaign for the Safety of Journalists is an initiative aiming to promote press freedom and protect journalists from violence, threats, and harassment while performing their duties. As part of this Campaign, the Council of Europe is inviting everyone to support their cause, take action for their enhanced protection, while raising awareness about the importance of safeguarding journalists and their right to report the news freely and without fear. 

 Visit the "Campaign for the Safety of Journalists" webpage

"Everyone has the right to freedom of expression"

Art. 10 European Convention on Human Rights

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